Navigating State Boards of Pharmacy: Insights and Strategies for Pharmacies and Pharmacists

Pharmacy Practice News
By Lucas W. Morgan, Esq. 

The importance of a pharmacist’s (or other provider’s) relationship with their respective board(s) of pharmacy (BOPs) is hard to overstate. This relationship can often be neglected, however, given the many demands on owners, managers and pharmacists in running a pharmacy—especially independent pharmacies where resources and personnel may be limited. As BOPs have increased actions involving the various licensees they oversee in their capacity as a regulatory agency and in executing their duties to protect the health and well-being of the residents of their respective states, the significance of maintaining a strong relationship with BOPs has recently garnered more attention. To help licensees work more effectively with BOPs, Frier Levitt developed a complimentary three-part webinar series titled “Navigating State Boards of Pharmacy: Insights and Strategies for Pharmacies and Pharmacists." This series was released over a six-week period spanning March 29 to May 10, 2023.

The first webinar in the series, “Common Actions Taken by Boards of Pharmacy,” focused on several principles:

1. understanding what BOPs are and their role as administrative agencies; 
2. some of the most common oversights and mistakes leading to BOP actions; and 
3. the most common types of actions taken by BOPs. 

This webinar also examined the impact that BOPs can have on licensees’ relationships with other third parties, including payors at the private and government level.

The second webinar in the series, ”Practical Tips to Prevent Board of Pharmacy Discipline,” concentrated on:

1. steps that can be taken to prevent BOP discipline; 
2. how to build a positive relationship with BOPs; and 
3. steps that can be taken once issues have been detected. 

The second webinar also discussed why prevention is crucial for licensees, practical guidance on cultivating a positive relationship with state BOPs, the significance of effective communication with state BOPs and the importance of relationships with other state BOPs for those licensed in more than one state.

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